Is your 2007 Toyota Camry key fob not working as reliably as it used to? Perhaps you’ve noticed the range decreasing, or maybe it’s completely dead. Before you rush to the dealership and spend a significant amount of money, consider this: replacing the battery in your 2007 Camry key fob is a surprisingly simple task you can do yourself. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, saving you time and money.
What You’ll Need
Luckily, you won’t need any specialized tools for this task. Here’s what you’ll need to replace the battery in your 2007 Camry key fob:
- A new CR1632 battery: This is the specific type of battery your 2007 Camry key fob requires. You can find these at most drugstores, electronics stores, and online retailers.
- Your Camry’s mechanical key: This key is cleverly hidden within your smart key fob itself and is essential for opening the fob.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your 2007 Camry Key Fob Battery
Follow these easy steps to get your key fob working like new again:
Step 1: Remove the Mechanical Key
Locate the small latch on the side of your 2007 Camry key fob. Press and hold this latch while gently pulling out the mechanical key. This key is used for manually unlocking your car door and, in this case, for opening the key fob.
Step 2: Pry Open the Fob
Now that you have the mechanical key removed, you’ll use it to carefully pry open the key fob. Examine the fob and locate the narrow slot that’s perpendicular to where you just removed the mechanical key. Insert the thinned end of the mechanical key into this slot.
Gently twist the mechanical key. You should feel the fob begin to pop open. Don’t force it; a gentle twist is usually enough to separate the two halves of the key fob.
Step 3: Access the Circuit Board
Once the key fob is open, you’ll see a circuit board inside. This board might be held in place with a light adhesive or double-sided tape. Carefully slip the end of your mechanical key underneath the edge of the circuit board. Gently lever it upwards to loosen and remove it from the fob casing.
Step 4: Replace the Battery
With the circuit board partially removed, you can now access the battery. The CR1632 battery is held in place by small metal legs or clips. Carefully use your fingertip or the tip of the mechanical key to gently spring these legs open one at a time, freeing the old battery. Remove the old battery and replace it with the new CR1632 battery. Ensure the positive (+) side of the battery is facing upwards, which should be the same orientation as the battery you just removed.
Step 5: Reassemble the Fob
Now that you’ve replaced the battery, carefully place the circuit board back into its compartment within the key fob. Align the two halves of the key fob casing and press them firmly together until they snap securely back into place. You might need to apply a bit of pressure to ensure it’s fully closed. Finally, slide the mechanical key back into the key fob until it clicks into its locked position.
Tips and Considerations for Your Camry Key Fob Battery
- Battery Type: Always use a CR1632 battery for your 2007 Camry key fob. Using a different type might not work or could potentially damage your key fob.
- Where to Buy CR1632 Batteries: You can purchase CR1632 batteries at many locations including drugstores, supermarkets, electronics stores like RadioShack or Best Buy, and online marketplaces like Amazon.
- Why Batteries Die Quickly: While batteries are expected to last a couple of years, certain electronic devices emitting “pings” can cause your smart key to wake up frequently, potentially reducing battery life. Devices like cell phones, laptops, and TVs can contribute to this if stored very close to your key fob. Try to keep your key fob at least 40 inches away from these devices when possible.
- Low Battery Warning: Your 2007 Camry may display a “low key battery” warning on the dashboard. If you see this warning, it’s a good indication that your key fob battery is nearing the end of its life and should be replaced soon.
- Emergency Start: If your key fob battery is completely dead and your car doesn’t recognize the key, you can still start your 2007 Camry. In an emergency, place the back of your key fob (the side with the Toyota logo) directly against the “Start” button on your dashboard. This usually allows the car to detect the key and start the engine.
- Dealer Costs: Dealerships often charge a significant amount for key fob battery replacement, sometimes upwards of $50 or more. By following these simple DIY steps, you can save yourself a considerable amount of money and time.
Conclusion
Replacing the battery in your 2007 Camry key fob is a straightforward process that anyone can accomplish with a few minutes and a new CR1632 battery. By following this guide, you can avoid unnecessary dealership costs and regain full functionality of your key fob. Enjoy the peace of mind knowing you’ve handled this simple car maintenance task yourself!
